Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf induces apoptosis of human prostate cancer cells in vitro and in vivo

► The anticancer activity of Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf extract (HLE) in vitro was examined. ► HLE is rich in ellagic acid. ► The strongest potency of HLE on the cytotoxicity was towards LNCaP cells. ► Effect of HLE in the cells is mediated via intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. ► Our data present the first evidence of HLE as an apoptosis inducer in LNCaP cells.